does my son have autism? and how can i tell?

Tanya - posted on 04/14/2010

Get a referal to a pediatrician right away..these things take months.....to figure out! in the meantime if you look on line there are diets that some believe can help with autism these are Gluten Free, most grocery stores today have a section for these foods, I will say now this route is alot of prep-prep-prep but can be done and if it does work it is well worth it. I know some parents this has worked 100% for and others barely at all. Still moving in a postive 'forward' direction will help ease your mind while you wait for appointments. while awaiting appointments you can call in to the pediatricians office and see if there are any cancellations that week you can take. As for the malls try to shop during 'quiet' times supper etc. if your child does have autism he experiences sight, sound, taste, hearing and touch so differently from you, each sense is 'super hightened' lights noise and visual ques can be so confusing, I can only compare it to the 'white' noise you see on a tv screen with the volume soo high your whole body hurts! as for trips and other daily tasks try picture prompts, on the back of the seat infront of him put a row of sticky back velcro and place pictures as to your trip, i.e first stop is the dry cleaner to pick up clothes, 2nd stop grocery store, 3rd stop lunch at (where ever) and last stop bank then home. the same for daily tasks if you need him to focus a picture board will help, 1st picture the t.v then his bath then snack etc etc. this may help him organize his thoughts and stop the 'panic' effect he feels thus cutting down on tantrums. Above all take time out for yourself and dad, if you are destined to have a child with needs you will need the support of each other so much more, and believe me none of your friends or family will "get it" . If you get a diagnosis, I would go as far as pre-screening schools and see what they offer and have things in place when you register for jk. I know I've most likely scarred you with all this, just take a deep breath and know you are doing a great job its nothing you've done. Its wonderful that you've reached out and are looking for answers and solutions, I know parents that continue to deny a childs learning difficulties and it is so frustrating. good luck sending you hugs for your tears and know there is help out there, need anymore you can send me a message. x

Iridescent - posted on 04/13/2010

First step, go to his pediatrician. Ask for a referral to a child psychologist and get an evaluation done as soon as he turns 3. It's pointless to do it prior as nobody will diagnose. Next, call the local public school district and get a full evaluation for services, like tomorrow as the school year is coming to an end. Specifically request PT, OT, ST and Sensory. They do not usually do sensory but it is a very important part. Start treatment as soon as you can.

We have 2 kids with autism, one was moderate/severe, the other is on the more mild end of the spectrum. This is how you start. You need both the medical diagnosis and the school diagnosis, and the school can start treatment until age 4 based on theirs, after which they need the medical (not given until at leas age 3).

Leanne - posted on 04/13/2010

you need to get him into a specialst and gets the testing started, it is not something they can diagnose over night. My son was not diagnosed until he was 11 and he had many of the same symptoms you are saying your child has and starting around the same age. the sooner you get him tested the sooner you can work on a plan to get him any extra help he needs for speech and possiblky when he starts school. Also get his ears checked, autistic kids are known for ear problems and he may need his ears flushed or dissolving tubes put in. It will help his hearing and speech ALOT! it worked wonders on my son.

Ashley=) - posted on 04/13/2010

My advice would be to bring your son to the doctor and speak to them about your concerns for your son and the will understand 100% and give you the best advice for your son.Its only natural to be concerned and upset (hugs)..I wish you all the best.